CSV, which stands for Comma-Separated Values, is a simple file format used to store and exchange tabular data such as spreadsheets or databases. In a CSV file, each line represents a row, and the values within that row are separated by commas, though other delimiters like semicolons or tabs may sometimes be used. It is widely used because it is lightweight, easy to read, and supported by almost all data-handling tools, including spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and programming languages such as Python, R, and Java.
One of the main advantages of CSV is its simplicity. Unlike more complex formats such as JSON or XML, a CSV file contains only raw data without extra metadata or formatting. This makes it extremely portable and efficient for sharing information between systems that might use different software. For example, a database export in CSV format can be opened in a spreadsheet for analysis or transferred to another application for processing. Because it is plain text, a CSV file can also be opened in any text editor, making it easy to inspect and edit directly.
Despite its usefulness, CSV has limitations. Since it lacks a standardized way to represent complex data structures, it is not ideal for hierarchical or nested information. Different systems may also interpret CSVs slightly differently, especially when handling special cases such as quoted strings, newlines within cells, or different character encodings. These inconsistencies can sometimes cause issues when transferring data between platforms.
Even with these drawbacks, CSV remains one of the most common and practical formats for data exchange. Its simplicity, readability, and compatibility with a wide range of tools ensure that it continues to play a vital role in data storage, analysis, and communication across industries and technologies.
